Materials Needed

Step 1: Mark Area

Decide where in the yard you want your border and mark out its shape. For a curved edge, use a garden hose. Make sure the border is not too narrow and that its shape fits well within the overall layout of the garden.

Step 2: Cut Garden Shape

Using a half-moon edger or a small spade, carefully slice through the grass, following the contours of the hose. Make sure the cuts line up properly and push the full depth of the cutter into the ground.

Step 3: Strip Off Sod

With a spade, begin stripping off the sod. Cut it into manageable-sized squares from above, then slide the blade of the spade under the roots of the grass. Try to avoid removing an excessively deep layer of soil.

Step 4: Save Sod

Stack the sod in a spare corner of the yard, grass side down. The soil in this sod is nutrient-rich and should be reused. After several months, the grass will die off and the pile can be cut up, sifted, and dug into the borders.

Step 5: Clear Debris

Dig over the exposed soil with a fork, pushing the tines down to their full depth. Remove old roots, large stones, and debris that you unearth, and break up large clods of soil. Work the soil until it has a crumbly texture.

Step 6: Spread Compost

With a spade, spread about 2 inches (5 cm) of organic matter, such as well-rotted farmyard manure or garden compost, over the surface of the border. Turn the compost into the soil, and mix it in evenly.

Step 7: Spread Sand or Gravel

If the soil is heavy or poorly drained, spread a 3-inch (8-cm) layer of coarse sand or gravel over it, and dig this into the top 6 inches (15 cm) of soil with a spade. This will help open up drainage channels through the soil in the root zone.

Step 10: Arrange Plants

Set out the plants, still in their pots, on the ground, adjusting their positions until you are happy. Pay attention to their eventual size, flower and foliage color, and season of interest to achieve your desired effect.